Our Commission

I have been thinking about these words from David Livingstone, a doctor and missionary who devoted much of his life to exploring Africa and spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He once asked this thought-provoking rhetorical question: “If a commission by an earthly king is considered an honor, how can a commission by a heavenly King, be considered a sacrifice?”

If we think of evangelism and missions work that way, then we realize what an honor and a privilege it is to do whatever we can in response to the Great Commission.

Here is something else to think about: the first book of the New Testament (Matthew) ends rather abruptly with Jesus’ final words. He said: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Jesus could have talked about heaven or His return, but instead, He commissioned His disciples – including each of us – to continue doing the work of the ministry.

Today, as we think about the billions of non-Christians around the world – whether in some foreign land or living in the house next door – let’s remember that until the Great Commission is fulfilled, it is still our commission.

Let’s let our lights shine and our words bring life!